When replacing a fridge-freezer, start by working out how much fresh and frozen food you really need to store. Then compare the space required and annual energy consumption of each set-up. A combined appliance, two separate appliances or a repair may suit different situations. ADEME recommends considering a repair if an appliance breaks down, although it won’t be the right option in every case.
If you need to replace both functions in an existing kitchen, consider the balance between fridge and freezer space, the dimensions and how easy it is to access the storage. The European Commission says the energy label for refrigeration appliances includes details such as compartment volumes and annual energy consumption.
If you tend to buy more fresh or frozen food, assess these needs separately before choosing an appliance or adding another one. ADEME points out that refrigeration appliances run continuously, and that choosing a larger size or having more appliances than you need can increase energy consumption.
If the appliance still meets your needs, compare a repair quote with the cost of replacing it, and check which warranties or insurance policies apply. ADEME advises considering a repair before replacing an appliance that has broken down.
A fridge-freezer combines fresh and frozen storage in one appliance; a fridge or a separate freezer provides only one of these functions. If an appliance breaks down, a repair is another option to consider based on a quote and any applicable warranties.
Consider this if: you need both functions in one space.
Check: how the space is divided between compartments and how easy it is to access the storage.
Consider this if: fresh food is your priority and you don’t need freezer space, or you already have a suitable freezer.
Bear in mind: you’ll need another way to freeze food. If you keep two appliances plugged in, add their annual energy consumption together.
Consider this if: frozen storage has become a priority and you already have enough fridge space.
Bear in mind: it won’t replace a fridge and will need its own space.
Consider this if: the appliance still meets your needs and a professional recommends a suitable repair.
Check: the quote, the expected result and whether the repair may qualify for the repair bonus. The bonus doesn’t guarantee that a repair will be cost-effective.
| What matters | What to check before buying | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Balancing fridge and freezer space | Compare the capacity in litres of each compartment and how the storage is organised, rather than looking only at the total capacity. | If you need to store both fresh and frozen food in specific proportions, the way the space is divided matters more than the combined capacity. Around 20% of consumers prioritise this balance. |
| Comparing energy consumption | Check the kWh/year figure for each model, and add them together if you’re keeping two appliances. Compare set-ups that meet the same needs. | If you want to keep electricity costs down, compare the annual energy consumption of the whole set-up, not just the energy rating. Around 20% of consumers make this a priority. |
| Fitting the appliance in your kitchen | Measure the space and check the installation type, door opening and drawer clearance against the model’s instructions. | If you’re replacing an appliance in a fitted kitchen, you’ll need to be able to install it and access the storage easily. Around 20% of consumers put fitting the appliance into their kitchen first. |
| Choosing useful features | Check which features you’ll actually use, which compartment they apply to and the stated noise level. Don’t assume a feature guarantees food will stay fresh. | If you want to cut down on certain maintenance tasks or are considering noise levels in a living space, check the specifications of the exact model. Around 20% of consumers prioritise convenience and maintenance. |
| Weighing up repair versus replacement | Check any warranties or insurance, ask a professional for a quote and confirm whether the repair qualifies for the bonus before including it in your comparison. | If the faulty appliance still meets your needs, you can compare a repair with buying a new one without assuming which will be the better option. Around 20% of consumers prioritise keeping their appliance and managing the immediate cost. |
The energy rating, capacity and annual energy consumption tell you different things. A larger appliance or an additional appliance can also increase energy consumption.
Compare the kWh/year figures for set-ups that meet your needs, counting every appliance that will stay plugged in. To estimate your costs, use your own electricity tariff.
A fridge-freezer divides its space between fresh and frozen food, while a fridge or a separate freezer provides only one of these functions.
Check the capacity of each compartment and how the storage is arranged before choosing a format.
The bonus depends on factors such as the appliance’s cover, the repairer and the type of work needed. It doesn’t automatically apply to every maintenance job or fault.
Check your warranties and insurance first, then ask for a quote and confirm that the repair qualifies with a QualiRépar repairer.
Examples of a freestanding fridge-freezer, a fridge without a freezer compartment and an upright freezer give you several storage formats to compare.
The Beko B5RCNE405HXB fridge-freezer is one model to consider if door clearance and air circulation features matter to you.
The tall CNd 5704 Pure NoFrost fridge-freezer is one model to consider if you’re comparing capacity, height and the manufacturer’s stated noise level.
These Joybuy models are combined fridge-freezers, so you can compare options that bring fresh and frozen storage together in one appliance. Check the balance of capacity, dimensions and annual energy consumption against your needs.
Image unavailable
This combined appliance provides both functions. Check that the stated capacity split suits your storage needs.
Stated capacities: 215 l for refrigeration and 115 l for freezing.
Stated energy consumption: 165 kWh/year; frost-free system stated; noise level shown in the title: 35 dB.
Image unavailable
This multi-door model combines refrigeration and freezing. Check that the doors can be accessed and opened as needed in the space available.
Stated capacities: 311 l for refrigeration and 156 l for freezing.
Stated energy consumption: 290 kWh/year; energy rating E; Total No Frost and a noise level of 35 dB(A) stated.
The product description says the doors are not reversible.
Image unavailable
This three-door fridge-freezer combines fresh and frozen storage. Check that its layout suits your needs and the space available.
Stated capacities: 235 l for refrigeration and 125 l for freezing.
Stated energy consumption: 271 kWh/year; energy rating E; Total No Frost and a noise level of 35 dB(A) stated.
The title lists Wi-Fi and My Zone; the product description mentions a reversible door and a width of 59,5 cm.
Image unavailable
This combined appliance provides both functions. Compare the capacity of each compartment with the balance you’re looking for.
Stated capacities: 279 l for refrigeration and 89 l for freezing.
Stated energy consumption: 238 kWh/year; energy rating E; NoFrost listed for the freezer.
The product description notes that it uses flammable R600a refrigerant. Avoid damaging the refrigeration circuit and arrange specialist collection at the end of its life.
Image unavailable
This multi-door model combines refrigeration and freezing. Check that its dimensions and layout suit your kitchen.
Stated energy consumption: 301 kWh/year; energy rating E; No Frost technology listed in the product description.
The product description specifies at least 50 mm of clearance at the back and sides for ventilation.
The current energy label for fridges and freezers uses a scale from A to G. The European Commission says it includes details such as kWh/year, compartment capacities and noise emissions; its QR code links to information on EPREL. The old A+, A++ and A+++ ratings can’t be compared directly with the new ratings.
No, the bonus depends on whether the repair qualifies. ecosystem offers a €25 reduction for an eligible repair carried out by a QualiRépar repairer outside the warranty period; the appliance must not, in particular, be covered by a warranty or insurance policy. Check the conditions that apply to the fault before counting on this reduction.
Contact the seller under the legal guarantee of conformity. Service Public says that, for a covered fault that appears within two years of delivery, this guarantee also applies to second-hand and refurbished goods. It is separate from a commercial warranty.
The ‘one-for-one’ take-back service is free, up to the number and type of products sold or replaced. Service Public Entreprendre says this obligation also applies to distance sales. Agree the arrangements with the seller before delivery.
Anses recommends keeping the coldest part of the fridge between 0 and +4 °C and advises checking it regularly with a thermometer. This is guidance for using your fridge, not a purchasing requirement or a setting that applies to every compartment.